News Corp. is exploring starting its own national cable sports network, sources say, adding that the company is in talks with sports organizations and pay-TV carriers to acquire the necessary rights. Rupert Murdoch's company already owns regional Fox Sports Net channels, along with Fuel, which focuses on martial arts, and Speed, dedicated to motor sports.

The private-equity owners of regional cable operator WideOpenWest reportedly are considering making a bid for Knology. The southern regional cable operator could be worth $1.5 billion at auction, according to this article. Such a deal largely depends on whether WOW's majority owner, Avista Capital Partners, can reach attractive financial terms, sources say.

Real estate agents, fashion professionals and the life of concierge doctors in Orange County, Calif., will be featured in Bravo's coming lineup. New designers will flaunt their stuff in "Fashion Stories of NYC," while unusual homes will be featured on "Property Envy." Botox emergencies and other health complaints will be addressed by doctors who make house calls in "MD: OC."

The YouTube star Annoying Orange will have its own series on Cartoon Network this summer. It's part of a slate of new series that also includes "Dragons: The Series," which is based on the hit movie "How to Train Your Dragon." The channel will also debut a new "Batman" program and a second show in partnership with Lego, to roll out next year. The network renewed several shows, including "Adventure Time" and "The Amazing World of Gumball."

Comedians Kate Flannery and Rove McManus will get new shows on TV Guide Network. "StandUp in Stilettos" debuts in June and will feature female comedians, hosted by "The Office" star Flannery. McManus will host a talk show called "Rove LA," set to begin in July.

Table tennis fans can watch this year's championships from Dortmund, Germany. Universal Sports is offering pay-per-view of the event through Sunday, and UniversalSports.com is live-streaming of 70 hours of action.

ABC Regional Sports and Entertainment Sales is now working with the World Fishing Network. As the network's ad rep, ABC will sell for both WFN and WFN HD. "WFN's popular lineup of fishing and lifestyle programs provides the compelling content and stunningly beautiful visuals that are ideally suited to reach viewers dedicated to the sport," said ABC's John Watkins.

Comcast Xfinity Voice customers can now send free text messages. Smartphones and tablets can use the company's new mobile application for messaging and transcribing messages. Both features are also available on the Xfinity website. "We're evolving our service to go well beyond a traditional home phone experience, and, at the same time, save our customers money on their wireless bills," said Comcast's Cathy Avgiris.

CTAM Insights and CTAM Summit will be co-located at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin resort, Oct. 14 to 16. One registration offers access to both conference sessions. Register today to save $300 with the kickoff rate.

Meet at the crossroads for innovation

On April 5 in New York, join Cable Interacts 2012 with experts from Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cablevision, HBO, MTV, A&E, McCann Erickson, Samsung and more. CTAM members are eligible for a special member rate of only $99. Space is limited; register today!